Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that the entire family will love, then this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just what you need! This recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s so simple to prepare and packs a punch of flavor. With layers of tender chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant veggies, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some extra protein and fiber!

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or simply want a warm dish that feels like a big hug, this casserole has got you covered. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This casserole comes together in just one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the flavors packed in every bite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy Ingredients: Filled with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Chicken Burrito Casserole is easy-peasy! You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store. These simple, wholesome ingredients come together to create a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy.

For the Casserole

• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 1 cup dry long-grain white rice, basmati or jasmine
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup corn kernels, frozen
• 14oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
• 450g cooked chicken, shredded (6 cups or 3 chicken breasts)
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated
• Fresh cilantro*, to serve
• Green onion*, to serve

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavors.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, bake the chicken breasts during this time. It only takes about 25 minutes until they’re perfectly cooked!

Step 2: Combine Your Veggies and Rice

In a large baking dish (I used one that measures 9 x 13 inches), add your diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Stir these together well—this is where all those delicious flavors start mingling!

Step 3: Make the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, combine your chicken broth with tomato paste and olive oil. Whisk until everything is well blended. This mixture adds moisture and depth of flavor to your casserole.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour your broth mixture into the baking dish over the rice-veggie blend. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is nicely combined. Next up is adding the star ingredients: shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it into the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while ensuring that rice cooks through completely.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked and all liquid is absorbed, carefully remove from the oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle your grated cheese generously over the top. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until melted and slightly golden—trust me; this step makes all the difference!

Step 7: Serve It Warm

When it’s ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions as desired. Then dig in! Enjoy this comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a new favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Chopping vegetables and shredding chicken in advance can save you lots of time, making weeknight cooking feel less hectic.

• Use Leftover Chicken: If you have leftover rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken, this recipe becomes even quicker to assemble, allowing for a fast and easy dinner option.

• Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more jalapeño or chili powder if you like it hot, or stick to milder alternatives if preferred. This makes the dish adaptable to your family’s taste.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier without it falling apart.

• Double the Recipe for Meal Prep: You can easily double the ingredients to make two casseroles. One can be enjoyed fresh, while the other can be frozen for a convenient meal later on!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only hearty but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here’s how you can present this dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a refreshing flavor that complements the spices in the casserole.
• Sliced Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that enhances both presentation and taste.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm casserole, enhancing your meal’s freshness.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole offers a rich texture that pairs excellently with the flavors of the casserole while adding healthy fats.
• Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with lime and cilantro is a great addition that rounds out your meal and keeps with the burrito theme.
• Corn Salsa: This sweet and tangy salsa made with corn, tomatoes, onions, and lime adds an extra layer of flavor and brightness to each serving.

With these tips for serving and garnishing your Chicken Burrito Casserole, you’re all set to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftovers so you can savor this dish even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, portion it into individual servings.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then follow the refrigerator reheating instructions.
• Microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making your Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out veggies based on your preference or what you have on hand. You can also try different types of cheese or add spices for an extra kick!

How do I make Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole as directed and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it well with foil and bake when you’re ready to enjoy it!

Is this Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is made with gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute cooked turkey or even keep it vegetarian by adding more beans or lentils for protein.

What should I serve with Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Consider serving it with a side of fresh salad or avocado slices for a balanced meal. It’s also great topped with sour cream or guacamole!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s such a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrition that brings everyone together at the table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations with me—I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own!